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Asparagus has been used as a healing food for many centuries – Traditional Chinese Medical Practitioners have used it for everything from arthritis to reproductive disorders. The high potassium, low sodium mineral balance makes the plant a natural diuretic, and thus it has been used historically for problems involving fluid retention and swelling, including PMS-related water retention.
It is also high in folic acid, and one cup alone supplies up to 60% of the daily recommended intake of this mineral. Folic acid is especially important in pregnancy and pre-conception care, in order to prevent neural tube defects and promote proper brain development.
Asparagus spears are also an excellent source of Vitamins K, A and C, along with many B vitamins and fibre, making them an ideal food for almost everyone. The one proviso applies to those who are prone to gout, as they do contain purines.
